In brief
Japan announced a steep increase in visa fees, the first rise in nearly five decades, affecting all foreign visitors. The single-entry visa will cost 15,000 ¥ and the multi-entry 30,000 ¥ from 1 July. Officials say the jump reflects inflation and a weaker yen, but they expect no immediate hit on inbound tourism. Parallel fee rises for residence applications and extensions were also approved to bring Japan’s costs in line with other G7 countries.
Japan has implemented a five‑fold increase to visa fees for all foreigners, marking the first price hike in nearly 50 years.
From 1 July, single‑entry visa fees will rise from 3,000 ¥ ($18.69) to 15,000 ¥, while multi‑entry visas will cost 30,000 ¥, up from 6,000 ¥.
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the changes are to "reflect inflation and exchange rate fluctuations" and that the government does not expect an immediate impact on inbound tourism.
The yen has weakened steadily since 2021 and is now near its lowest level in 40 years. A post‑pandemic travel rebound pushed international visitors to a record 42.7 million last year.
In addition to visa fees, Japan’s Upper House approved a bill raising other fees for foreigners. The cap for permanent residency applications will increase to 300,000 ¥, 30 times the current 10,000 ¥; residence status changes and extensions will cost up to 100,000 ¥ instead of 10,000 ¥.
Authorities argue the hikes bring Japan in line with other G7 economies – for instance, the United States charges $185 to $315 for non‑immigrant visas, and the United Kingdom charges £135 for a six‑month short‑term visa.
